From big concert venues to favorite restaurants, the live music scene on Long Island is always strong. And when nights call for a laid-back vibe with a cold one, Long Island bars with live music are the perfect antidote. Satisfy your music cravings by jamming at these eight favorite spots throughout Nassau and Suffolk.
Mulcahy’s Pub and Concert Hall, Wantagh
Those who love a good tribute band need a little Mulcahy’s in their life. A slew of cover bands take the stage, including The Allmost Brothers giving their best Allman Brothers impression and Long Island’s Van Halen tribute band, Completely Unchained. Sometimes even the originals show up—NSYNC’s Joey Fatone made 90s night even better. Other acts like Jim Breuer and The Voice star Troy Ramey have also made their way over to serenade the crowd. Phone: 516-783-7500 | Address: 3232 Railroad Ave Click to jam
Napper Tandy’s Irish Pub, Smithtown and Northport
Music is a weekly happening at this popular chain. The Northport location guarantees live bands every Saturday starting at 9pm. The same goes for Smithtown where Long Island bands take the stage followed by a late-night dance party with a DJ. Northport: Phone: 631-757-4141 | Address: 229 Laurel Ave. Smithtown: Phone: 631-360-0606 | Address: 15 E Main St. Click to jam
Rudi’s Bar & Grill, Patchogue
A good time is guaranteed at Rudi’s with food, drinks, sports and, of course, music. Get entertained by local talent like The Vibe. Or sing along with cover bands, including Hardcopy belting songs from bands everyone knows, including the Beatles and Aerosmith. Phone: 631-627-6726 | Address: 554 NY-112 Click to jam
Lily Flanagan’s Pub, Babylon
Live acoustic music happens nearly every Sunday at Lily Flanagan’s Pub with chef weekend specials to go along with it. Think pan seared mahi mahi, beef stroganoff and potato pancakes. There’s also a drink of the week to top it off. This Irish pub sometimes offers live music during happy hour on Fridays. Listen and order from the Friday happy hour menu that includes $7 appetizers and drinks for no more than $5. Phone: 631-539-0816 | Address: 345 Deer Park Ave Click to jam
KJ Farrells Bar and Grill, Bellmore
There’s live music happening at this popular joint six nights a week. Local and national acts take the stage as well as tribute bands. (Tickets are required.) There are even open mic nights giving anyone a chance a shine. Phone: 516-804-9925 | Address: 242 Pettit Ave Click to jam
The Nutty Irishman, Farmingdale
This place has a motto, “Cold beer, great music and good times.” And that great music often comes from acts who take the stage on random nights throughout the month. Expect a whole bunch of local groups like Whiskey Road Country and Peat Moss & The Fertilizers, along with cover bands and acoustic shows. Keep an eye out for specials during show days including ladies night on Friday and $5 cocktails for all on Saturdays. Phone: 516-293-9700 | Address: 323 Main St. Click to jam
The Park Lounge, Kings Park
Describing itself as a “home away from from home,” The Park Lounge is a cozy spot to catch local talent on Friday nights. The friendly bar also has nearly 20 taps, bar grub (fried pickles or grilled cheese anyone?) and other events happening throughout the week. Phone: 631-979-1351 | Address: 605 E Main St. Click to jam
Memories Bar and Grill, Williston Park
Memories Bar and Grill has been hosting weekly live music for over 12 years. It’s a welcoming spot for local acts and cover bands. Frequenters also rave about the food which includes burgers, a fried chicken and waffles sandwich, baby back ribs and shrimp tacos. Phone: 516-248-0695 | Address: 121 Hillside Ave Click to jam